Coping grout

[JB007]

So we finally are getting our larger travertine tiles for the raised pool walls and spa.
I notice that when they installed the coping around the pool (lower beam with 12x12x1 travertine tiles), (our grout lines are approximately 1/4" wide) they did not fill the entire height of the travertine when they grouted. Maybe 1/4 to 3/8 deep, maybe 1/2 deep in some areas.
Does anybody know if they should grout the full depth of the travertine ?
Can we put a backer rod in and grout on top ?
I would think we can fill half of the travertine height with backer rod and then grout the other half.
Just want to make sure my grout will last, especially with the larger tiles (12x24).

 

[ajw22]

It is probably not grout in the coping gaps but type S mortar the same as used to lay the coping.

The gaps should be filled with mortar and not any backing rod.

 

[JB007]

you might be right on the point there'; i did not see them use any thing else. They may have just used the same stuff (has the same color anyway).
Is that ok ? what about the fact that they did not fill the full 1" heigth of that tile ?

 

[ajw22]

Is that ok ?

Yes

what about the fact that they did not fill the full 1" heigth of that tile ?

Sloppy work.

 

[JB007]

You can say that!
Is using this mortar better than grout ? or would you use real grout ?
Want to make sure they do this right on my large tiles

 

[ajw22]

Your subject line says coping and now you ask about tiles.

Post pics of the good areas and problem areas.

 

[JB007]

coping, sorry. they are travertine tiles used as coping

 

[ajw22]

Post pics.

 

[JB007]

12x12x1

 

[ajw22]

Pics

 

[JB007]

here we go

 

[ajw22]

What's the Difference Between Grout and Mortar?

Let's discover the similarities and differences between grout and mortar.

www.contractors.com

Mortar will hold up better then grout outdoors.

Once it dries and sets completely, grout is very durable. However, it is not invulnerable and will slowly lose its strength over time. This is especially true with tile grout, which is regularly exposed to water and steam that decrease its strength. As a result of water damage, grout can crumble and break apart, creating little holes between the tiles.

However those gaps are narrow and it will take some work getting mortar down in it. That may be why the mason skipped it.

You should talk to the mason who did the work.

Mortar vs. Grout vs. Thinset: What Are the Differences? - Handyman's World

In many ways, mortar, grout, and thinset are materials similar to each other. However, there are slight differences between them that make each suitable for different applications.

handymansworld.net

 

[JB007]

Thanks for your input on this. Will review with the tiler.